Ex-Man City player's theory over next manager who Pep Guardiola has relationship with

Manchester City are still none the wiser about Pep Guardiola's plans beyond next summer, but one former City star reckons he could help them secure a top-tier replacement

Manchester City have been told they should be considering Xabi Alonso as Pep Guardiola's potential successor.

Guardiola's contract is set to end next summer and there's growing speculation about who could fill his shoes. Bayer Leverkusen boss Alonso, who was coached by the City manager at Bayern Munich, has been suggested as a possible replacement.

He's been highly sought after following his remarkable 'Invincibles' season in Germany last term, winning the Bundesliga without tasting defeat. The ex-Real Madrid midfielder was Liverpool's first choice to take over from Jurgen Klopp during the summer but ultimately decided to stay at Leverkusen.

Nonetheless, former City goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon believes they could have what it takes to secure him, especially if Guardiola helps pave the way. Speaking at the launch of Ladbrokes' Gaffer of all Accas, he said: "I would really like to see Xabi Alonso take over from [Guardiola].

"I've heard so many good things about this guy. So many good things. Xabi knows the league, he's got some great experience now, having managed in Spain, and winning the title in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen, without losing a game.

"He's done a fantastic job over there - he could be an option, for sure. Especially when you remember he's worked with Pep Guardiola before, at Bayern, and so that relationship might play a part in things when it comes to Guardiola's replacement."

Guardiola may yet extend his contract with City. It's believed club chiefs are optimistic about achieving that, especially after Thomas Tuchel was appointed as England boss - a role he was strongly linked with.

They're pressing him for a decision and want his future sorted out sooner rather than later to prepare for the 2025/26 season. Other potential replacements mentioned include Sporting's Ruben Amorim, ex-City defender and current Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany, and Girona's Michel.

Alonso's Leverkusen haven't quite matched the standards they set last season so far this time out. They suffered a defeat in their second Bundesliga match, having only lost in the Europa League final last campaign.

However, they're just three points behind league leaders Bayern, with four wins from their first seven games. And Pantilimon, who spent three years at the Etihad Stadium as a player, remains convinced by Alonso's capabilities.

The Romanian goalkeeper, who towered between the sticks at 6'8", initially joined City on loan from Politehnica Timisoara in 2011 before making the move permanent in 2012. He played 29 times for the club, mostly serving as backup to first-choice goalkeeper Joe Hart, going on to have spells at Sunderland, Watford and Nottingham Forest before retiring in 2021.

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